Volunteer Spotlight: Steve Roy
Meet Steve Roy, a dedicated volunteer at Comfort Zone Camp since 2011. After losing his father and brother in a car accident during his childhood, Steve discovered the camp and recognized its incredible value—something he wished he had access to during his own time of grief. Without hesitation, he signed up for training and has been a committed volunteer ever since. Read more about Steve’s story, explore his passion for the camp, and uncover the reasons behind his unwavering commitment to returning year after year!
Question & Answer
How did you start going to CZC? I learned about CZC’s existence through a link in a work email, back in 2011. It sounded like something I could have used as a child, so I was intrigued. A training was being held the following week, so I decided to see what it was all about.
How did it help? The training was wonderful and, though nervous, I signed up to volunteer for camp. My hope was to be of some help to kids who were like the kid I used to be. I certainly hope I have been. What was unexpected was the impact going to camp has had on me personally. I don’t think I realized that my own grief was still an active part of me – often dormant, but still an integral part of who I am. Volunteering at CZC all these years has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. It has allowed me to be there for others while simultaneously giving my own grief room to breathe.
What do you want others to know about CZC? I want people to know that CZC is more than just a place, it’s more than just a weekend. CZC is a feeling. It’s love and acceptance; it’s hope and relief… CZC is the warmth of being understood. It’s where kids learn that they’re not alone and there’s such magic in that.
Why do you keep coming back as a volunteer? I love camp. The kids, the volunteers, the staff, the program. All of it. To be a part of a Healing Circle and to witness the grace and compassion these kids show to one another is a privilege. It’s an honor. To sit with them in some of the deepest and darkest waters of their grief as they share their stories, to feel that emotion… it’s incredibly powerful. And then, to see another grieving child provide comfort and assurance? It’s miraculous in its simplicity… and so beautiful to see.
What is your favorite part of camp? The bonfire. The fun and the songs and the s’mores are awesome, yes… but the Circle of Remembrance is my favorite. I love the beauty of the song, and the connections formed as we send our notes to our loved ones through the fire.
What is your favorite CZC pin? I love the Sun pin. The design, the feel… and how the dark clouds of grief and loss are no match for the warmth and brightness of the love we have for those we’ve lost. No matter how cloudy and gray things may seem, the Sun is still shining behind it all.
Favorite Ice Breaker? I’ve always loved People to People. It gets everyone talking, learning about each other… and then the Twister-like mayhem begins!
his 50th birthday.
